KIEL, Germany — Arthur Abraham retained his IBF middleweight title with an easy unanimous decision over overmatched Lajuan Simon tonight.

The talented German champion pounded the American challenger from the opening bell, although Abraham never managed to deliver a knockout blow to the previously unbeaten Simon.

The judges scored it 117-110 (twice) and 118-09 for Abraham, who hopes to land a unification bout with recognized champion Kelly Pavlik, the holder of the WBO and WBC belts who has plans to defend against Sergio Mora later this summer.

"After that I will move into the super-middleweight division," Abraham said.

Abraham traditionally has trouble making the middleweight limit, and needed to lose 15 pounds in the 10 days before the fight.

"I am pleased with my performance tonight," Abraham said. "He was not a bad opponent and he took a lot and he fought bravely. It was important to win."

Simon lost for the first time in 25 fights. He also has two draws.

"He was stronger than I thought," Simon said. "It was an interesting experience. I will be back."